Couple’s China walk for charity

Husband and wife team Barry (29) and Claire (28) Campbell will kick off their fundraising adventure on April 18, and spend a total of nine days covering a section of the Great Wall of China, to raise vital funds for the Crohn’s and Colitis UK Clyde group which supports people locally with the illness.

The pair got the travel bug a few years ago when they took 13 months out to go on a round the world trip and they also regularly take part in charity events including 10k runs.

Now they have combined their two passions – charity and travel – to face their biggest trial yet.

Claire explained: “We both have friends and family that suffer from the condition. The nature of the illness means that people often do not talk about it because they are embarrassed.

“This challenge will allow us to not only raise money but make more people aware of Crohn’s and colitis.”

In preparation for the event, the pair are attending the gym and doing regular hill walks but there is no taking away from the mammoth task they face.

Claire said: “This is the biggest charity challenge we have done. When we went round the world, we did some volunteer work in Africa but this is still the biggest thing we have done.”

They hope to raise around £3000 for the charity, and Claire had been hosting bake sales and plans are also underway for a bag pack at a supermarket.

A race night will be held in St Margaret’s Hall in Airdrie on Wednesday, February 23 starting at 7pm.

Tickets cost £5 and can be paid at the door on the night.

You can also sponsor the pair by visiting http://www.justgiving.com/clairecampbellchinatrek/eurl.axd/c277d4709cc4164fa652c0554006676e.

Barry and Claire would in the meantime like to thank everyone who have supported their fundraising efforts so far.